Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a condition in which people experience problems with inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. As of 2012, no rigorous scientific studies exist on the best careers for ADHD adults, although some experts have offered opinions on suitable careers for those with ADHD. Research on ADHD job performance currently centers on identifying ADHD employees' workplace problems and possible ways to treat them.

Background

ADHD is a disorder, usually appearing in childhood, that leaves many adults with unusually high levels of physical restlessness, inattention and impulsivity that can affect their performance in the workplace. ADHD research suggests the condition may have some genetic basis, because it tends to run in families; certain environmental factors, such as prenatal exposure to maternal smoking and alcohol consumption or childhood brain injuries before or after birth, are also suspected of contributing to ADHD.

Self-Management Techniques

Medication and psychotherapy can help alleviate ADHD workplace symptoms, but ADHD adults must develop self-management techniques for job success. In a 2009 essay, "ADHD in the Workplace," clinical psychologist Carol Ann Robbins offers a checklist of potential minor, low-cost workplace changes that ADHD employees can use to become more effective. These tactics include reducing noise levels through wearing headphones or installing a white noise machine, taking walking breaks and working at a standing desk to fight restlessness, hiring a coach to learn time and paperwork management skills, and using audio equipment or taking notes during meetings to retain information.

Using Positive Qualities

Robbins notes that ADHD workers often have unusual strengths, including the surprising capacity to focus intensely on complex, challenging projects; a quick response to crisis situations; an ability to multitask when necessary; an acceptance of variety and interruptions in office routine; and a sincere interest and enjoyment in communicating with other people. Robbins suggests that ADHD adults visit a counselor specializing in ADHD to obtain career counseling about jobs that will utilize their unique mix of strengths and weaknesses.

Career Choices

ADHD experts sometimes offer suggestions on careers that may be good for ADHD adults. Thom Hartmann's 2010 book, "ADHD Secrets of Success," describes his personal experience in uncovering large numbers of ADHD adults among entrepreneurs. Psychologist Laura Honos-Webb, in her 2008 book, "The Gift of Adult ADD," discusses meeting people who are happy in high-stimulation careers, including artists, musicians, designers, stylists, entertainers and firefighters. Other ADHD experts think it's a mistake to steer people with ADHD into certain types of careers; they believe people with ADHD should be encouraged to enter a career they enjoy, provided they are realistic about adhering to any necessary medication, therapy or self-management techniques in order to succeed.

About the Author

Robin Elizabeth Margolis is a freelance writer in the Washington, D.C., area. She has been writing about health care, science, nutrition, fitness and law since 1988, and served as the editor of a health law newsletter. Margolis holds a bachelor of arts degree in biology, a master's degree in counseling and a paralegal certificate.

Photo Credits

Have Feedback?

Thank you for providing feedback to our Editorial staff on this article. Please fill in the following information so we can alert the Work editorial team about a factual or typographical error in this story. All Fields are required.